Cocktail of the month: Sloegroni Fizz
This month we’re posting up in one of our favourite spots in Coolangatta, Bin 72. Head bartender Livie Knight’s creation, the Sloegroni Fizz, is a must-try from the hideaway spot located on the second floor of The Strand, overlooking Coolangatta beach.
Livie’s Sloegroni Fizz is a light, fresh version of a negroni made with Ink Sloe & Berry Gin. It’s a short drink served in a coupe with a shot of champaign on the side - to either mix into the coupe or to use as a pallet cleanser between sips.
Bin 72’s kitchen whipped up the perfect food pairing for us - prawn-stuffed zucchini flowers with jalapeño dipping sauce plus cured salmon with radish, dill, pink pepper corns, micro sprouts and pickled onions. A pairing that screams Coolangatta summer vibes!
What’s the story behind this cocktail?
Livie: Negroni is one of my favourite drinks. The traditional negroni is quite bitter and strong so I wanted to create an entry level negroni showcasing Ink Sloe & Berry.
What’s your favourite drink to mix?
Livie: Negroni and Old Fashioned, as they’re so versatile. My favourite Old Fashioned is rum-based, particularly with honey and orange - I use local Mount Tamborine honey and candied orange peel.
Why rum?
Livie: I love rum - I spend four weeks visiting the Dominican Republic, where rum is a huge part of the culture. I spent time with the locals, visiting plantations and learning how they make rum - and drinking it, of course!
What do you love most about bartending?
Livie: Being creative, and the ability to make something personal for people to enjoy. The Bartender’s Signature on the menu here at Bin 72 allows for a unique experience when someone doesn’t know exactly what they want.
What’s your best advice for young mixologists?
Livie: Just give it a go! Don’t be afraid of wasting product to find a perfect mix. Trial and error is essential, and there’s nothing wanky about taking notes on what you’re making.
Another tip is to expand your social network of bartenders. Get inspired by others and don’t be afraid to look outside your box or your venue’s style - themes can always be mixed. For example, I’ve drawn inspo from tiki cocktails and given them the Bin 72 twist. I follow a lot of bartenders who inspire different styles such as @megsdoesbevs. Actually, I connected with a lot of bartenders on Instagram through the Ink Gin 100 Cocktail Competition - that’s another tip, have a go at some competitions! No harm in trying and you could get some great feedback.